TR5491 - Rigging and Field Area Network (FAN) Services pursuant to a framework agreement

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1. At a glance

2. Scope of Work

This procurement seeks to establish a framework agreement for the provision of comprehensive, end-to-end project delivery services for the replacement, upgrade, and installation of telecommunications microwave links and associated rigging works across ESB's network estate. The framework will be structured using a Cascade method, potentially appointing up to five framework members.

The scope encompasses the complete lifecycle delivery of microwave radio point-to-point links and other link replacements or new installations. Key activities include:

• Survey and Site Readiness: Initial assessment of site conditions and requirements.
• Design and Engineering: Development of technical designs for link installations.
• Planning and Permits: Securing necessary permissions and approvals.
• Health and Safety Management: Adherence to stringent safety protocols, including statutory role appointments such as PSDP/PSCS where required.
• Supply and Logistics: Sourcing, collection, and delivery of equipment and materials.
• Installation and Integration: Physical installation of equipment and integration with existing systems.
• Testing and Commissioning: Verification of functionality and performance.
• Documentation and Handover: Creation and submission of detailed handover documentation, including high-resolution photos.
• Defect and Aftercare Support: Provision of warranty and support services.

Specific rigging services include work on telecoms towers, masts, pylons, rooftops, and building facades, with a high priority on safety, particularly in High Voltage substations. The contractor will be responsible for coordinating all necessary resources, subcontractors, plant hire, and specialist access requirements, including working at height.

The ESB Networks estate comprises approximately 125 Microwave links, 80 SCADA Polling Radio sites, and 150 satellites. The work is required for providing backhaul connectivity for Private Long-Term Evolution (pLTE) and replacing legacy equipment.

Additional rigging requirements include:

• Licensed microwave link installation, radio programming, commissioning, testing, and integration with the Network Management Centre (NMC).
• Line of sight and link feasibility surveys.
• Detailed design (CAD) drawings.
• Project management.
• Structural analysis and equipment mounting designs.
• Fault and weather-related damage repair to telecoms network equipment with quick response times.
• Satellite installation and maintenance.
• SPR Scada Polling Radio installation and maintenance.
• Equipment end-of-life replacement.
• Cabinet/rack installation.
• Tower maintenance and certification for up to circa 15 ESB Networks Locations, potentially including new structures.
• Electrical works on 230v AC & 48v DC.
• Tree surgery and de-vegetation for emergency operational response.
• Rope access works.
• Supply of MEWPs, Cranes, and other plant hire.
• Installation and testing of various cable types (coaxial feeder, DC power, Fibre, twisted pair CAT6).

The framework will also cover the supply of consumable materials and plant hire rates. Contractors must comply with statutory requirements regarding asbestos.

3. Background & buyer context

Electricity Supply Board (ESB) was established in 1927 and is majority owned by the Irish Government. It operates across the electricity market, including generation, transmission, and supply, with a regulated asset base of approximately €12 billion. ESB employs around 8,000 people and supplies electricity to approximately 2 million customers.

The procurement aligns with ESB's strategy, 'Driven to Make a Difference: Achieving Net Zero by 2040', which emphasizes leadership in sustainability and a transition to a net-zero future. ESB seeks to procure supplies, services, and works with positive environmental, social, and economic impacts, aligning its processes with ISO 20400, Sustainable Procurement standards. ESB has also developed a Sustainability Leadership Plan focusing on People, Planet, and Place, and is a member of the Irish Supply Chain Sustainability School. The contract may ultimately be entered into by a subsidiary or affiliate of ESB.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered:

• Turnover requirement: A minimum average annual turnover of €4,100,000 (excluding VAT) over the two previous financial years. This applies to a single applicant or, for consortia, to each applicant member and/or any entity being relied upon.
• Insurance:
• Public/Products Liability Insurance: Minimum indemnity limit of €6.5 million per claim, and in aggregate for Products Liability.
• Employer's Liability Insurance: Minimum indemnity limit of €13 million per claim.
• Motor Insurance: Minimum property damage indemnity limit of €2.6 million per occurrence and unlimited indemnity for personal injuries.
• Professional Indemnity Insurance: Minimum indemnity limit of €1 million per claim and in the annual aggregate.
• Bidders must provide statements from insurers confirming current or willingness to provide required cover.
• Certifications: Compliance with ISO 45001, Safe T Cert, or an equivalent safety management system is required.
• Past experience: Not specified for this tender.
• Personnel: Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Works are required in the Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland.

5. Award criteria & scoring

The contract will be awarded on the basis of the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT). The selection criteria are set out in the PQQ, and qualitative criteria will be applied at the Request for Tender (RFT) stage. Applicants failing any pass/fail criteria will not progress.

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